Downtown Raleigh Illuminate Art Walk

Where: Fayetteville Street and Glenwood South, Raleigh

When: Now until Jan 5

Parts of downtown have been transformed by large-scale, interactive light-based art pieces scattered throughout the area. The free event is self-guided and an interactive map can be found on the event’s website.

Martin Luther King Jr. Dreamfest

Where: Around Downtown Cary

When: Fri – Mon, Jan 12 – 15

The Town of Cary’s Dreamfest features a range of events around the civil rights leader’s life and legacy. It will include the screening of several films at The Cary movie theater in Downtown Cary and other performances and presentations.

Tree Toss 2024

Where: Animal Park at the Conservation Center, Burlington

When: Sat, Jan 20, 10:30 am – 3 pm

The Animal Park at the Conservation Center is home to wolves, bears, tigers and other exotic animals that were rescued from previous living situation. The center aims to educate the public on these animals and advocate for improved laws against owning these wild and fierce creatures. It also serves as a hub for volunteers interested in working with wildlife. The Tree Toss is an annual event where the center gives donated Christmas trees to the animals who love to use them as toys. Come out and witness this truly unique experience.

Triangle Restaurant Week

Where: All over the Triangle!

When: Mon-Sun, Jan 22 – 28

‘Triangle Restaurant Week is a week-long celebration of culinary excellence designed to incorporate the premier Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and surrounding area restaurants.’ Amazing restaurants all across the area will be offering 3-course lunches for $15 and 2-3 course dinners ranging from $25-$50. Check the event site for a full list of restaurants and don’t miss this great opportunity to explore some of our area’s best food.

23rd Annual African American Cultural Celebration

Where: North Carolina Museum of History, Raleigh

When: Sat, Jan 27, 10:30 am – 4:30 pm

The event will mark the state’s kickoff of Black History Month and has been named a Top 20 event by the Southeast Tourism Society. There will be musicians, storytellers, dancers, chefs, historians, playwrights, authors, artists, reenactors and more.

Umstead State Park (Raleigh)

Many people have started off the new year with a “First Day Hike.” Umstead State Park is a gem; A 5,599 acre State Park in a city the size of Raleigh is almost unheard of. Luckily for us, government officials were wise enough to protect the land back in 1937. The park is a haven for hikers, runners, bikers and more. There are extensive trails, creeks and ponds open to the public. Also check out more outdoor areas destinations in the area.